Race, M; (2017) The manifestation of personality disorders in the workplace: the impact of toxic workplace behaviour on career success. Doctoral thesis , UCL (University College London).

Abstract

In recent years, leadership research has begun to focus on the negative or ‘dark side’ of leadership with a focus on understanding the personality factors that can cause an individual to derail or plateau in their career. There is evidence that ‘dark side’ traits can influence an individuals’ propensity to experience career derailment but conversely in some situations these traits can actually contribute to success. This thesis addressed a current gap in the literature by examining the factors that determine the direction of this relationship at the individual, organisational and follower level. In study 1, the role of individual characteristics was examined to determine if features such as facial attractiveness influence how dark side leaders are perceived by others. Results showed this to be the case and that facial attractiveness can make the ‘dark side’ appear brighter. In study 2 – 4, the role of culture and organisational context was explored. Findings from Study 2 showed that sector, industry and role can contribute to the direction of the relationship between dark side traits and success. Study 3 highlighted the importance of mental health literacy as a mechanism for highlighting and addressing dark side behaviour. Results showed low levels of mental health literacy even amongst participants with a background in psychology. In study 4, the paradox of dark side behaviour was examined amongst a sample from the banking industry and results indicated that certain traits lead to greater success for men than women and that culture plays an important role. Study 5, concluded with a study looking at the susceptibility of different groups of followers and other organisational actors to dark side traits and findings indicated the relationship between the rater and the focal person plays a critical role in determining the career success of the dark side leader. Self-awareness was also found to be an important factor. In summary, the results from this thesis build on the work of Padilla, Hogan and Kaiser (2007) who suggested the presence of a toxic triangle that leads to derailment. This thesis suggests it is more helpful to view the relationship between personality disorders and career success as a three-dimensional model where multiple layers of defence must be penetrated in order for a dark side leader to become successful.

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